Volume 13 | Issue 12 |

 Abstract

Abstract Oral storytelling has always been an integral part of any culture. Storytelling tradition precedes written literature. Stories more than a medium of entertainment, serve to unite the communities and inculcate values, transmit knowledge, survival strategies across generations. Oral storytelling tradition in India traces back to the era of Vedic period. The Vedas too incorporated mythological tales, hymns and mythological discourses. The epics were also narrated orally before they were scripted. Storytelling has the extraordinary ability to take the listener to a world of thoughts, fantasies, myths, and stories by igniting his imagination through spoken language. Orality describes the manner in which people verbally communicate with one another. The foundation of oral tradition and verbality is communality, solidarity, and a focus on the sacred. Literary texts have also evolved from this oral tradition. The impact of orality is also apparent on many Indian narratives. Sarah Joseph is a Malayalam writer and social activist. She has infused the tradition of storytelling in her novel Gift in Green. Some of these stories are rooted in the indigenous soil and some of them are derived from myths and legends. The present paper proposes to analyse these stories from an epistemological and stylistic perspective and evaluate their contribution to the society.

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Keywords: Orality , Oral storytelling, Story-telling Session, Communality

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Decentralization in India, institutionalized through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, represents a milestone in democratizing governance and empowering local institutions. It mandates the devolution of powers, functions, and resources to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) across three tiers--village, intermediate, and district--under Articles 243 to 243 O. This paper examines the present status of decentralization and citizen participation by analysing data from the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) "Status of Devolution to Panchayats in States" (2025) and related studies such as the Devolution Report (CRMI India, 2024) and NIAS-HSS (2024) Policy Brief. Using a qualitative, document-based approach, the paper evaluates six key dimensions of the Devolution Index: Framework, Functions, Finances, Functionaries, Capacity Enhancement, and Accountability. These reflect both de jure (legal) and de facto (practical) aspects of decentralization. The findings show that states such as Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu perform strongly in composite scores, while Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh trail moderately. Kerala leads in finances and accountability, whereas Tamil Nadu excels in capacity enhancement. However, the persistence of parallel administrative bodies, weak district planning mechanisms, and bureaucratic delays continues to limit the autonomy of PRIs and the effectiveness of Gram Sabhas. The paper argues that fiscal devolution and institutional capacity are the strongest predictors of citizen participation. It further discusses emerging innovations such as the SVAMITVA Scheme and e-Gram Swaraj Portal, which combine technology and governance to enhance transparency, property taxation, and revenue generation. The study concludes that the next phase of decentralization must merge technological transparency, fiscal empowerment, and civic participation to realize the constitutional promise of participatory self-governance.

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Keywords Decentralization, Panchayati Raj, Citizen Participation, Rural Governance, Devolution Index, Fiscal Federalism, Accountability

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Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 and The Open Definition

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Outer space is a harsh environment harboring multiple forms of stress like cosmic radiation, space vacuum, extreme temperature and pressure, UV radiations, and altered gravity. Earth's atmosphere has several layers that expose microbial and terrestrial life to harsh external environments. In order to study the limits of survival of microbial life in extremes, it is imperative to study the response of microorganisms to space-related stress. The present chapter summarizes the various balloon and flight experiments performed to investigate the presence and response of microbial life in space. Studying microbial life in space also helps predict the plausible survival and endurance of microbial travel between planets, crucial to lithopanspermia theories and planetary protection.

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MICROBES BEYOND LIMITS: A REVIEW ONLIFE IN SPACE, ICE AND OTHER EXTREME ECOSYSTEMS

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This study investigates the seismic safety of high-rise reinforced cement concrete (RCC) buildings, specifically focusing on the soft storey irregularity often caused by open ground floors for vehicle parking. A G+10 building is analysed using STAAD.Pro software across India's four seismic zones (IV and V) to evaluate performance under earthquake loads. By introducing soft storeys at various levels, the research compares key parameters like storey drift, lateral displacement, and base shear. The findings identify the most critical soft storey positions and highest vulnerability zones while benchmarking deviations. Ultimately, this comparative analysis aims to recommend improved design practices to enhance earthquake resistance and structural stability in multi-storey buildings facing potential seismic risks.

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Seismic Analysis, Soft Storey, Storey Drift, STAAD.Pro, G+10 RCC Building

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Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 and The Open Definition

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Microbial contamination of cosmetic products poses a major problem in public health. Due to the increasing use of cosmetic products in daily life, they have become an integral part of our activities to look good and maintain confidence in society. The major concern arises from the use of products such as skincare items like creams, moisturizers, sunscreens, serums, and body lotions; hair care products such as shampoos and conditioners; makeup products including foundation, lipsticks, mascaras, eyeliners, blushes, and compact powders; as well as personal hygiene and fragrance products like perfumes, deodorants, and shaving creams. Most contaminations occur due to the type of raw materials used and improper manufacturing practices. Contamination can also occur due to storage in unhygienic places or prolonged exposure of products to air. Furthermore, the spread of contamination is facilitated when cosmetic products are used by multiple individuals, which can lead to infections or allergic reactions. The most common microbial contaminants in cosmetic products are bacterial and fungal strains, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candidaalbicans

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A Review on Microbial Contamination of Cosmetic Products

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Network security is essential in today's digital world due to rising cyber threats and unauthorized intrusions. Cryptography strengthens network security by providing confidentiality, integrity, authentication, and non-repudiation in data communication. This review paper examines the role of cryptography in safeguarding networks, explores key cryptographic methods, discusses major security protocols, and explains the challenges and future trends in cryptographic research. The paper presents a concise and unique overview of how cryptography ensures secure digital communication across modern infrastructures

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Software Quality Assurance, Software Testing, Defects, Stakeholders, Requirements, Challenges.

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Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in India. Lack of awareness regarding CAD risk factors contributes significantly to the increasing burden of disease. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of an instructional module on CAD risk factors in improving knowledge and perception among adults residing in selected villages of Chhattisgarh. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre-test post-test control group design was used. A total of 60 adults were selected using convenience sampling and allocated into experimental (n = 30) and control groups (n = 30). A structured self-administered questionnaire and a 3-point Likert perception scale were used. The experimental group received an instructional module on CAD risk factors, whereas the control group received no intervention. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The experimental group showed a significant improvement in knowledge scores from a pre-test mean of 6.63 to a post-test mean of 17.1. The control group demonstrated negligible change (pre-test mean = 8.13; post-test mean = 8.26). Perception scores also improved considerably in the experimental group. Independent t-test results showed statistically significant differences between experimental and control groups (p < 0.001). Positive correlation between knowledge and perception was observed in the experimental group (r = 0.6). Conclusion: The instructional module was highly effective in enhancing knowledge and perception regarding CAD risk factors among adults. Community-based educational interventions can play a vital role in reducing CAD burden.

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Coronary artery disease, instructional module, knowledge, perception, risk factors, adults.

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Sustainable development has emerged as the defining challenge and guiding principle for global progress in the 21st century. It represents a paradigm shift from traditional economic growth models toward a holistic framework that seeks to harmonize economic prosperity, social inclusion, and environmental stewardship. This research paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the concept, evolution, and implementation of sustainable development. Utilizing a qualitative methodology based on a review of foundational literature, UN reports, and case studies, the paper examines the three core pillars of sustainability--economic, social, and environmental--and their intricate interdependencies. The analysis focuses on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as the primary global framework for action, evaluating progress, persistent challenges, and the critical role of technology, policy, and multi-stakeholder partnerships. The discussion highlights the tensions between short-term economic gains and long-term ecological viability, concluding that achieving genuine sustainable development requires a fundamental transformation in consumption patterns, production systems, and governance structures globally.

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Sustainable Development, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Economic Growth, Social Equity, Environmental Protection, Climate Change, Agenda 2030

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Hypertension is one of the leading non-communicable diseases contributing to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Body Mass Index (BMI) is a well-established modifiable risk factor for hypertension. This study aimed to assess the association between BMI and hypertension among adult patients and to utilize the findings to prepare an information booklet focusing on prevention of hypertension-related complications. A descriptive correlational design was employed among 200 hypertensive patients attending outpatient services in a selected hospital. Data were collected using a structured tool for socio-demographic details, BMI measurements, and blood pressure readings. Results showed that 62% of participants were overweight or obese, and a statistically significant association (p < 0.001) was found between BMI categories and hypertension grades. The study recommends widespread patient education using information booklets that emphasize lifestyle modification, early detection, and prevention of complications.

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Body Mass Index (BMI), Hypertension, Lifestyle Modification, Patient Education, Information Booklet, Cardiovascular Complications.

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This study evaluates the knowledge and practices related to biohazard spillage management among 100 healthcare professionals and personnel, including housekeepers, lab technicians, pharmacists, nurses, and dialysis technicians. Using a structured questionnaire via Google Forms, the research assessed awareness, response strategies, training effectiveness, and documentation practices. Findings revealed high awareness of biohazards (97%) and spillage management (97%), with 90% having received formal training. However, gaps were noted in documentation (47% did not record incidents), consistency in following safety protocols, and preparedness, as 11% responded to spills with panic. Common causes of spillage included improper handling (97%) and insufficient training (47%). While most adhered to standard protocols, the study highlights the need for enhanced training frequency, practical drills, and improved documentation to ensure effective and safe spill management in healthcare settings.

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Biohazard spillage, Health care, professionals, training, documentation

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Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 and The Open Definition